Reader of the Week: Natalia “Mooncat” Garcia

Britain's latest, unsigned, sultry songstress

By Kirsten Kilponen
Published: June 8th, 2009 | 12:00am

If any of you VZ readers out there are constantly searching for the musical delights of undiscovered artists, then check out the serenades of London’s Natalia Garcia — better known as “Mooncat.” Her emotional voice, accompanied by her acoustic guitar, will transport you to the very rainy day on which she must have written her songs. But before you eagerly click away to her MySpace, check out what the 23-year-old had to say about wanting to be an actress, pineapple pizza, and doing the splits.

Can you describe the sound of your band, Mooncat, in 3 words?

Bittersweet, alive, and homemade.

Can you tell us what your life is like being a musician?

It is quite a recent discovery really. I studied Drama and always wanted to be an actress. My music was only the way to escape when I was pissed off about things. One day I thought I would play my songs in front of people, and now that's what I do. It is quite addictive once you are up there. Exciting!

Who are your favorite musicians and what musicians impress you currently?

I have a soft spot for Dylan, Joplin, and Cat Power. Oh, and Chopin! Vincent Gallo and Tom Waits always make me wanna write, but “Me and Bobby McGee” does it pretty well, too.

Who have been the most influential people in your life?

Some of my Literature teachers and my mum.

Do you have any interesting nicknames?

One guy in high school started calling me 'Cooper' — no idea why, but all my friends back home still call me so.

What is your favorite type of pizza?

Tuna, pineapple and lots of cheese and I mean lots. Mmm...

Do you have a day job? Do you do something else to pay the bills?

I'm not working in anything else now but I've pulled pints, wiped kid's noses, and sang horrible crap in weddings ... If I really need to I'll go over to Broadway Market and sell stuff. There's a pile of things in my room that I wanna’ get rid off!

What are your favorite places to eat, have fun, and people watch in London?

I love a good curry in Brick Lane or my boyfriend's homemade sushi. Londonfields Park is a gorgeous place for a Sunday picnic. I also love going to Camden for a pint in the sun! Shoreditch is a good spot for arty types and all kinds of weirdos.

Do you have any hidden talents?

I can do a split and bake a good chocolate cake [but] not at the same time.

Any last words for our readers?

Think less and do more.

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http://www.myspace.com/mooncat85